
Modi, Putin, Xi, Kim, Erdogan, and Iran’s president meet in China to discuss Ukraine, trade, and global security marking a dramatic shift in world power dynamics (photo -X)
A Rare Gathering of Global Power
Global Giants Unite in Tianjin – In late August 2025, the northern Chinese city of Tianjin became the center of global attention. Leaders from Russia, China, North Korea, Turkey, Iran, and India arrived for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, a major international meeting focused on security, trade, and diplomacy.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi were among the key figures attending. This was one of the largest and most important SCO summits since the group was founded in 2001.
The timing of the summit was especially important. The war in Ukraine continues to affect global politics, and tensions between the East and West remain high. With many of these leaders facing pressure from Western countries, the summit gave them a chance to strengthen their alliances and discuss shared goals.
Ukraine War and Global Security
One of the biggest topics discussed was the war in Ukraine. President Putin met with Erdogan and Pezeshkian to talk about how the conflict is affecting their countries and the wider region. Turkey has tried to play a balancing role between Russia and NATO, while Iran has been accused of supporting Russia with military supplies.
China, which has not taken sides in the war, used the summit to promote peace and stability. President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation. While no major peace deal was announced, the leaders agreed that the war must be resolved through diplomatic efforts, not just military action.
The summit also included talks about terrorism, cyber threats, and border security. These are common concerns for SCO members, especially those in Central Asia. By working together, the group hopes to build a safer and more stable region.
Trade, Sanctions, and Economic Plans
Another major focus was trade and the economy. Russia and Iran are both facing heavy sanctions from Western countries, which has made it harder for them to do business internationally. China, as the world’s second-largest economy, is a key partner for both nations.
President Putin’s visit included meetings with Chinese business leaders and officials from Gazprom, Russia’s largest energy company. Several agreements were signed to boost energy cooperation and increase trade between the two countries.
India also played an important role. Prime Minister Modi met with other leaders to discuss trade routes, digital technology, and investment opportunities. India’s growing economy and its tensions with the West make it a valuable partner for the SCO.
The summit showed that these countries are trying to build a new economic system, one that doesn’t rely on Western banks or trade rules. This idea of a “multipolar world” was repeated many times during the event, meaning a world where power is shared more equally among different countries.
Military Parade and Symbolic Messages
After the summit, many leaders travelled to Beijing for a massive military parade. The event marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and was filled with tanks, aircraft, and missile systems. President Xi Jinping hosted the parade, with Putin as his “main guest” seated on his right and Kim Jong-un on his left.
The parade was more than just a show of strength. It sent a clear message to the world: China and its allies are united and powerful. By inviting leaders who often challenge Western influence, China showed that it is building its own group of friends and partners.
While the parade did not include direct threats, it reminded the world that these countries have strong militaries and are willing to work together. For many observers, it was a sign that global politics is changing and fast.
Final Thoughts
The SCO summit in China was not just another political meeting. It was a moment where some of the world’s most powerful and controversial leaders came together to talk about war, peace, trade, and the future. With the war in Ukraine still ongoing and tensions rising between East and West, this gathering could shape global events for years to come.
Whether these leaders can truly build a more peaceful and fairer world remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the balance of power is shifting and the world is watching.
Also read – Bridges Over Borders: Modi and Xi Landmark Pact in Tianjin, Reignite India-China Cooperation
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